Top 5 players the Jacksonville Jaguars must target on Day 2 of the 2023 NFL Draft
Prospect 3 the Jaguars must target on Day 2 of the draft: Brian Branch
The Jaguars' have yet to address that seems to be their biggest needs this offseason, which is the cornerback position. More specifically, they must find nicklel to round out a group that includes cornerbacks Tyson Campbell and Darious Williams.
Working in the Jags' favor is that there was a run on Day 1 at other positions and most of the top cornerback prospects remain on the board. Also, Alabama defensive back Brian Branch, who isn't a conventional corner, is still available, and general manager Trent Baalke should strongly consider going after him in the second round.
Branch's biggest strenght is his versatility, having lined up at nickel, safety and even linebacker on the Crimson Tide defense. He's also adept at stopping the run, which makes him an appealing option in the second round. Even though he could at times struggle in man coverage, he excels when he drops back in zone. Given the Jaguars' inability to protect the middle of the field, the Georgia native would be a solid pickup on Day 2.
While Branch had a first-round grade and was expected to be taken in the 20s, he's still waiting to hear his name call. It's hard to tell how the first ten picks of the second round will unfold but if keeps sliding, trading up shouldn't be ruled out and defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell should pound the table for the Swiss Army Knife.